Mid-Atlantic RegionConsumer's Guide toBuying a SolarElectric System

Mid-Atlantic RegionConsumer's Guide toBuying a Solar Electric System

Includes information for:Delaware PennsylvaniaDistrict of Columbia VirginiaMaryland West VirginiaNew Jersey

Contents

Background Page❑ What is a solar electric, or photovoltaic, system? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Investing in a PV system❑ Why should I buy a PV system? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4❑ Is my home or business a good place for a solar system? . . . . . . . . . . . .4❑ How big should my PV system be, and what features should it have? .5❑ How much will my PV system save me? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6❑ How much does a PV system cost? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6❑ Are incentives available to help reduce the cost? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7❑ How can I finance the cost of my PV system? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Selecting a PV installer❑ Who sells and installs PV systems? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8❑ How do I choose among PV providers? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8❑ How do I choose among competing bids? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9❑ Is the lowest price the “best deal”? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Before connecting a PV system to the grid❑ What about permits? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11❑ What about insurance? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11❑ How does the system interface with my existing utility connection?

What are my options? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11❑ What about net metering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12❑ What about utility and inspection sign-off? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..12❑ What about warranties? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

AppendixNational PV Programs, Incentives, and Contacts

❑ Utility Photovoltaic Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15Mid-Atlantic Regional PV Programs, Incentives, and Contacts

❑ Virginia Alliance for Solar Electricity (VASE) Program . . . . . . . . . . . .17❑ U.S. Department of Energy Million Solar Roofs’ Solar Energy Loan

Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17State PV Programs, Incentives, and Contacts in the Mid-Atlantic Region

❑ Delaware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19❑ District of Columbia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19❑ Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19❑ New Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21❑ Pennsylvania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22❑ Virginia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23❑ West Virginia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

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Are you thinking about buying a PV system for your home or business? If so, thisbooklet will provide basic information that you need to know. Consumers in Penn-sylvania, Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, West Virginia,and New Jersey are showing increased interest in solar electric systems for theirhomes and businesses. Photovoltaic (PV) systems are reliable, pollution free, anduse a renewable source of energy—the sun. Although they are still expensive, theyare becoming more affordable all the time.

Aside from the excellent technological advances and cost reductions in PV tech-nology, several state and federal PV programs and incentives are available to Mid-Atlantic region customers that are making PV systems more economical than everbefore. For example, several state government offices offer financial assistance inthe form of grants and tax credits to prospective PV customers.

The availability of net metering across the region is also providing an environ-ment more conducive to the provision of cost-effective PV and renewable energydevelopment. Net metering means that when your PV system generates morepower than you need, the meter runs backwards, resulting in an even swap for thegrid power that you use at other times. In essence, you receive full retail value forall the power that your PV system generates.

This booklet is designed to guide you through the process of buying a solar electricsystem. A word of caution: this is not a technical guide for designing or installingyour system; for that information, we recommend that you consult an experiencedPV system designer or system supplier (“PV provider”) who will have detailedtechnical specifications and other necessary information. A PV system can be asubstantial investment, and as with any investment, careful planning will helpensure that you make the right decisions.

These materials also provide information on PV programs, incentives, and policiesfor the states across the region. As the guide evolves, updated and more detailedinformation on state PV programs and policies will be provided.

Introduction

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What is a solar electric, or photovoltaic,system?

PV technology converts sunlightdirectly into electricity. It works anytime the sun is shining, but more elec-tricity will be produced on sunny dayswhen the light is more intense and isstriking the PV modules directly (whenthe rays of sunlight are perpendicular tothe PV modules). Unlike solar systemsfor heating water, which you might bemore familiar with, PV technology doesnot use the sun's heat to make electricity.Instead, PV produces electricity directlyfrom the electrons freed by the interac-tion of sunlight with semiconductormaterials in the PV cells.

But you don't need to understand thedetailed physics of how PV works tounderstand its appeal: investing in PVallows you to produce your own elec-tricity with no noise, no air pollution,and no moving parts while using a clean,renewable resource. A PV system willnever run out of fuel, and it won't increaseour oil imports from overseas. In fact,PV may help to reduce the trade deficitbecause many PV system components

are manufactured in the United States.Because of these unique characteris-tics, PV technology has been called “the ultimate energy source for the 21st century.”

The basic building block of PV tech-nology is the solar “cell.” PV cells arewired together to produce a PV “mod-ule,” the smallest component sold com-mercially, and these modules range inpower output from about 10 watts to300 watts. A PV system tied to the utility grid consists of one or more PVmodules connected to an inverter thatchanges the system's direct-current(DC) electricity to alternating current(AC), which is compatible with the utility grid and able to power devicessuch as lights, appliances, computers,and televisions. Batteries may be addedto the system to provide back-up powerin case your utility experiences a poweroutage.

Some things you should know beforepurchasing a PV system

First, it produces power intermittentlybecause it works only when the sun isshining. This is not a problem for PV

Background

Photovoltaic Modules

PV Cell

CustomerLoads or

Utility GridBatteries(optional) Inverter

02512001m

PV System

3

systems connected to the utility grid,because additional electricity you need is automatically delivered to you byyour utility.

Second, PV-generated electricity canbe more expensive than conventionalutility-supplied electricity. Improvedmanufacturing techniques have reducedthe cost to less than 1% of what it was inthe 1970s, but the cost (amortized overthe life of the system) can be 2-3 timeshigher than the kilowatt-hour (kWh)rate charged by the utilities in the Mid-Atlantic region. Net metering, whichallows residents to spin their electricmeters backwards and offset retail electricity costs, can help make PV

more affordable, and various incentivescan make it cost-effective.

Finally, unlike electricity purchasedmonth by month from a utility, PVpower comes with a high initial invest-ment and no monthly charge thereafter.This means that buying a PV system islike paying years of electric bills up-front. You'll probably appreciate thereduction in your monthly electric bills,but the initial expense may be signifi-cant. By financing your PV system, youcan spread the cost over many years,and state “buy down” grants and otherfinancial incentives can help make thecost more manageable.

The 800-watt solar system being installed on this rooftop will provide about 1/4 the electricity needed by a typical household in the Mid-Atlantic region. If the home is built very efficiently with good exposure to sunlight, the system couldsupply up to 1/2 of the home's energy needs.(David Parsons, NREL/PIX05579)

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Why should I buy a PV system?People decide to buy PV systems for

a variety of reasons. Some want to helppreserve the earth's finite fossil-fuelresources and reduce air pollution.Others believe that it makes more senseto spend their money on an energy-pro-ducing improvement to their propertythan to send their money to a utility.Some people like the security of reduc-ing the amount of electricity they buyfrom their utility because it makes themless vulnerable to future increases in theprice of electricity. Finally, some peoplejust don't like paying utility bills andappreciate the independence that a PVsystem provides.

Whatever your reason, solar energy iswidely thought to be the energy sourceof choice for the future, and electricityconsumers in the Mid-Atlantic regionhave a unique opportunity to take advan-tage of state and federally-sponsoredprograms to help make it their energychoice for today as well as tomorrow.

Is my home or business a good placefor a solar system?Can you orient your system for goodperformance?

A well-designed PV system needsclear and unobstructed access to thesun's rays for most or all of the day,throughout the year. You can make aninitial assessment yourself and, if thelocation looks promising, your PVprovider has the tools to trace the sun'spath at your location and determinewhether your home or business canmake use of a PV solar system.

The orientation of your PV system(the compass direction that your system

faces) will affect performance. In theMid-Atlantic region, the sun is alwaysin the southern half of the sky and ishigher in the summer and lower in thewinter. Usually, the best location for aPV system is a south-facing roof, butroofs that face east or west may also be acceptable. Flat roofs also work well for solar systems because the PVmodules can be mounted flat on the roof facing the sky or mounted onframes tilted toward the south at theoptimal angle. If a rooftop can't be used, your solar modules can also beplaced on the ground to provide maxi-mum performance.

Is your site free from shading by trees,nearby buildings, or other obstructions?

To make the best use of your PV sys-tem, the PV modules must have a clear“view” of the sun for most or all of theday—unobstructed by trees, roof gables,chimneys, buildings, and other featuresof your home and the surrounding land-scape. It is important to note that eventhough the area where a system ismounted may be unshaded during onepart of the day, it may be shaded duringanother. If this is the case, then thisshading may substantially reduce theamount of electricity that your systemwill produce.

Do you have enough area on your roofor property?

The amount of space needed by a PVsystem is based on the physical size ofthe system you purchase. Most residen-tial systems require as little as 50 squarefeet (for a small “starter” system) up toas much as 1,000 square feet. A typical1-kilowatt (kW) system would occupyfrom 80 to 300 square feet, depending

Investing in a PV system

5

on the type and efficiency of modulesemployed. The table below displaystypical roof-area requirements for arange of PV system sizes and moduleefficiency figures. Although the effi-ciency (or percent of sunlight convertedto electricity) varies with the differenttypes of PV modules available today,higher-efficiency modules generallycost more. Therefore, to meet your long-term energy savings goal, both the costand the efficiency must be taken intoconsideration when purchasing a PVsystem.

What kind of roof do you have, andwhat is its condition?

Some roof types are simpler andcheaper to work with, but a PV systemcan be installed on any type. Typically,composition shingles are easiest to workwith and slate is the most difficult. Inany case, an experienced solar installerwill know how to work on all roof typesand can use roofing techniques thateliminate any possibility of leaks. Askyour PV provider how the PV systemaffects your roof warranty.

If your roof is older and needs to bereplaced in the very near future, youmay want to replace it at the time the PV system is installed to avoid the cost

of removing and reinstalling your PVsystem. Panels often can be integratedinto the roof itself, and some modulesare actually designed as three-tab shin-gles or raised-seam metal roof sections.One benefit of these systems is theirability to offset the cost of roof materials.

How big should my PV system be, andwhat features should it have?

As a starting point, you might considerhow much of your present electricityneeds you would like to meet with yourPV system. For example, suppose thatyou would like to meet 50 % of yourelectricity needs with your PV system.You could work with your PV providerto examine past electric bills and deter-mine the size of the PV system neededto achieve that goal.

You can contact your utility and requestthe total electricity usage, measured inkilowatt-hours, for your household orbusiness over the last 12 months (orconsult your electric bills, if you savethem). Ask your PV provider how muchyour new PV system will produce on anannual basis (also measured in kilowatt-hours) and compare that number to yourannual electricity demand to get an ideaof how much you will save.

100 250 500 1,000 2,000 4,000 10,000 100,000

4 30 75 150 300 600 1,200 3,000 30,000

8 15 38 75 150 300 600 1,500 15,000

12 10 25 50 100 200 400 1,000 10,000

16 8 20 40 80 160 320 800 8,000

PV capacity rating (watts)PV moduleefficiency*

(%)

Roof Area Needed in Square Feet (shown in Bold Type)

0251

2002

m

* Although the efficiency (percent of sunlight converted to electricity) varies with the different types of PV modules available today, higher-efficiency modules typically cost more. So, a less-efficient system is not necessarily less cost-effective.

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As you size your system, you shouldconsider the “economies of scale” thatcan decrease the cost per kilowatt-houras you increase the size of the system.For example, many inverters are sizedfor systems up to 5 kW, and if your PVarray is smaller (say 3 kW), you maystill end up buying the same inverter.Labor costs for a small system may benearly as much as those for a large sys-tem. Therefore, it's worth rememberingthat your PV provider is likely to offeryou a better price to install a 2-kW sys-tem all at once, than to install a 1-kWsystem this year and another next year—multiple orders and multiple site visitsare more expensive.

Also, it is generally not economical totry to produce more power than youneed. This is because in some states theutility is either not required to compen-sate the consumer for excess generationabove the net metering period or is onlyrequired to do so at buyback rates thatare low. Typically, this is the utility's“avoided cost” rate that may be a merefraction, say 20%, of the retail rate pro-vided under net metering.

How much will my PV system save me?The value of your PV system's elec-

tricity will depend on how much youpay your utility for electricity and howmuch your utility will pay you for anyexcess that you generate. Because manyMid-Atlantic utilities are required tooffer net metering (and provide the fullretail credit for your generated, or netexcess, electricity), your calculation isfairly easy because you and your utilitywill each pay the same price for eachother's electricity.

A 1-kW system should meet about12%–18% of the typical residential cus-tomer needs. Given the amount of solar

resource available in the Mid-Atlanticregion, it would produce about 1,600 kWhannually under ideal conditions (i.e.,a south-facing installation and properslope of the roof). If you multiply thisannual power output by your averageelectricity rate (8 cents per kWh or so)and then divide by 12, you come upwith a monthly energy savings of about$11 per month. Depending on the grantsand incentives involved, a customershould expect to see a system paybackof less than 20 years—when the valueof energy produced equals the initialinvestment of the system. This is anachievable goal given the state and localprograms and incentives availableacross the region.

How much does a PV system cost?There is no single answer, but keep in

mind that a solar rebate and other incen-tives may reduce the cost. Your system'sprice will depend on a number of factors,including whether the home is underconstruction or whether the PV is inte-grated into the roof or mounted on topof an existing roof. The price also variesdepending on the PV system rating,manufacturer, retailer, and installer.

The size of your system may be themost significant factor in any equationmeasuring your costs against your bene-fits. Small, single PV-panel systemswith built-in inverters that produceabout 75 watts may cost around $900installed, or $12 per watt. These smallsystems will offset only a small fractionof your electricity bill. A 2-kilowatt sys-tem that will offset the needs of a veryenergy-efficient home may cost $16,000to $20,000 installed, or $8 to $10 perwatt. At the high end, a 5-kW systemthat will completely offset the energyneeds of many conventional homes may cost $30,000 to $40,000 installed,

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or $6 to $8 per watt. These prices, ofcourse, are just rough estimates, andyour costs will depend on your system'sconfiguration, your equipment options,and other factors. Your local PV pro-viders can provide you with estimatesor bids.

Are incentives available to help reducethe cost?

There are numerous state programsand incentives available to help “buydown” the cost of a residential PV sys-tem or make it easier to finance. Theseincentives may include: tax credits, stategrants, and low-interest financing pack-ages. Please see the final section of thispamphlet (“State PV Programs, Incen-tives, and Contacts in the Mid-AtlanticRegion”) for the most up-to-date infor-mation on incentives and financingoptions for PV systems in your state.

If your home is used for a business,you may be entitled to a 10% federal tax credit and accelerated depreciationon the PV system. These tax benefitscan substantially reduce the effectivecost of your PV system and should bethoroughly investigated.

How can I finance the cost of my PVsystem?

There is nothing magical about financ-ing the cost of purchasing and installingyour PV system. Although there aresome special programs available forfinancing solar and other renewable-energy investments, most of the optionswill be familiar to you.

One of the best ways to finance PVsystems for homes is through a mortgageloan. Mortgage financing options includeyour primary mortgage, a second mort-gage such as a U.S. Department ofHousing and Urban Development(HUD) Title 1 loan, or a home-equityloan that is secured by your property.There are two advantages to mortgagefinancing. First, mortgage financing usually provides longer terms and lowerinterest rates than other loans, such asconventional bank loans. Second, theinterest paid on a mortgage loan is gen-erally deductible on your federal taxes(subject to certain conditions). If youbuy the PV system at the same time that you build, buy, or refinance thehouse on which the PV system will beinstalled, adding the cost of the PV system to your mortgage loan is likelyto be relatively simple and may avoidadditional loan application forms or fees.

If mortgage financing is not available,look for other sources of financing, suchas conventional bank loans. Rememberto look for the best possible combina-tion of low rate and long term. This willallow you to amortize your PV systemas inexpensively as possible. Becauseyour PV system is a long-term invest-ment, the terms and conditions of yourPV financing are likely to be the mostimportant factor in determining theeffective price of your PV-generatedpower.

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Who sells and installs PV systems?It will be necessary for consumers to

select a vendor to perform the installa-tion of their PV system. We recommendthat the prospective customer contactthe local chapter of the Solar EnergyIndustries Association to get help inselecting a contractor/installer (i.e.,New York SEIA, Mid-Atlantic SEIA,and Maryland-D.C.-Virginia SEIA.)

In some states with PV grant programs,residents are allowed to select any PVinstaller they wish. In others, the stategovernment has already selected a quali-fied contractor through a competitivebid process. You should check with thelocal Regional Office (RO) of DOE oryour state energy office contact listed in the final section of this report. ThePhiladelphia RO serves the Mid-Atlanticregion. The Boston RO serves the NewYork region and Northeast.

In some locations, finding a PVprovider can be as simple as picking up the telephone directory and lookingunder “Solar Energy Equipment andSystems—Dealers.” Be aware, however,that many of those listings are for solarwater-heating companies. Many ofthese companies may not be experi-enced in PV system design or installa-tion. Similarly, many electrical contrac-tors, although proficient in typical elec-trical contracting work, may not haveexpertise in PV or with residentialroof-mounting techniques.

How do I choose among PV providers?Compile a list of prospective PV

providers. You might first considerthose closest to you, because the con-tractor's travel costs might add to your

system price. Next, contact theseproviders and find out what productsand services they offer. The followingquestions may give you a good sense of their capabilities:

Has the company installed grid-connected PV systems? If not, has itinstalled grid-independent PV systems?

Experience installing grid-connectedsystems is valuable because some ele-ments of the installation—particularlyinterconnection with the local utility—are unique to these systems. Becausegrid-connected systems are relativelyuncommon, most contractors with PVexperience have worked only on sys-tems such as those that power remotecabins far from the nearest utility line.This means they have experience withall aspects of PV system installationexcept the connection with the utilitygrid. Although grid-connection work is different from “off-grid” work, acompetent company with PV experi-ence should not be eliminated justbecause it has not installed grid-con-nected PV systems in the past. In fact,experience with off-grid systems isvaluable because grid-independent systems are more technically compli-cated than grid-tied systems.

How many years of experience does thecompany have installing PV systems?

This issue speaks for itself:A companyor contractor that has been in business a long time has demonstrated an ability to work with customers and to competeeffectively with other firms.

Is the company properly licensed?

PV systems should be installed by anappropriately licensed contractor. Thisusually means that either the installer or

Selecting a PV provider

9

a subcontractor has an electrical contrac-tor's license. You must contact the appro-priate state agency to verify that a givencontractor is licensed to perform theinstallation. Local building departmentsalso may require that the installer have ageneral contractor's license. Consumersshould call the city and county in whichthey live for additional information onlicensing. Some states even requireproperly licensed installers to demon-strate that they possess special knowl-edge about installing PV systems. Youshould check with your state energycontact. See the list of state energy contacts listed in the final section of this guide.

Does the company have any pending oractive judgements or liens against it?

As with any project that requires acontractor, due diligence is recom-mended. Your State Electrical Boardcan tell you about any judgments orcomplaints against a state-licensed electrician. Consumers should call thecity and county in which they live foradditional information on how to checkup on contractors. The Better BusinessBureau is another source of informationon contractors.

How do I choose among competing bids?If you have decided to get more than

one bid for the installation of your PVsystem (and it's generally a good idea todo so), you should take steps to ensurethat all of the bids you receive are madeon the same basis. For example, com-paring a bid for a system mounted onthe ground against another bid for arooftop system is like comparing applesto oranges. Similarly, different types ofPV modules generate more electricityper square foot than others. Bids shouldclearly state the maximum generating

capacity of the system (measured in wattsor kilowatts). If possible, have the bidsspecify the system capacity in “ACwatts,” or specify the output of the sys-tem at the inverter.

You may want to obtain some estimateof the amount of energy that the systemwill produce on an annual basis (mea-sured in kilowatt-hours). Because theamount of energy depends on the amountof sunlight—which varies by location,season, and year to year—it is unrealisticto expect a specific figure. A range ofapproximately 20% is more realistic.Bids also should include the total cost of getting the PV system up and run-ning, including hardware, installation,connection to the grid, permitting, salestax, and warranty. Your warranty is avery important factor for evaluatingbids. The installer may offer longer warranties. Also ask yourself, “Will thiscompany stand behind the full-systemwarranty for the next two years?”

Is the lowest price the “best deal”?It might not be. Often, you get what

you pay for. Remember that a PV com-pany is a business just like any other,with overhead and operating expensesthat must be covered. It's always possi-ble that a low price could be a sign ofinexperience. Companies that plan tostay in business must charge enough for their products and services to covertheir costs, plus a fair profit margin.Therefore, price should not be your only consideration.

Remember, if your state has an incen-tive program for solar energy, it may bethrough a pre-selected group of contrac-tors. If so, you can only get the incentiveby using one of those contractors.Furthermore, most state programsrequire the prospective PV customer to

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first contact the state to apply to thegrant program and verify that incentivesare still available. A customer shouldnot expect to receive incentives or

grants after they have installed a systemon their own. It is important to contactthe state first before proceeding withyour solar project.

Rick Brook, second from left, and Lyle Rawling, right, President of FIRST, a solar inte-grator, carry solar photovoltaic panels to the roof of Brook's home in New Jersey.When the first summer storm knocks out the grid in 1998, "we'll still have power," says Brook. "I think that will be a good time for a party." (Bob Gibson, UPVG/PIX08095)

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What about permits?If you live in a community in which

a homeowners association requiresapproval for a solar system, you or yourPV provider may need to submit yourplans. Gain approval from your home-owners association before you begininstalling your PV system.

Most likely, you will need to obtainpermits from your city or county build-ing department. You will probably needa building permit, an electrical permit,or both before installing a PV system.Typically, your PV provider will takecare of this, rolling the price of the permits into the overall system price.However, in some cases, your PVprovider may not know how much timeor money will be involved in “pulling”a permit. If so, this task may be pricedon a time-and-materials basis, particu-larly if additional drawings or calcula-tions must be provided to the permittingagency. In any case, make sure the per-mitting costs and responsibilities areaddressed at the start with your PVprovider.

Code requirements for PV systemsvary somewhat from one jurisdiction to the next, but most requirements arebased on the National Electrical Code(NEC). The NEC has a special section,Article 690, that carefully spells outrequirements for designing and instal-ling safe, reliable, code-compliant PVsystems. Because most local require-ments are based on the NEC, yourbuilding inspector is likely to rely onArticle 690 for guidance in determiningwhether your PV system has been prop-erly designed and installed. If you areamong the first people in your commu-

nity to install a grid-connected PV sys-tem, your local building departmentmay not have approved one of these sys-tems. If this is the case, you and yourPV provider can speed the process byworking closely and cooperatively withyour local building officials to help edu-cate them about the technology and itscharacteristics.

What about insurance?If you are buying a PV system for your

home, your standard homeowner'sinsurance policy is usually adequate to meet the utility's requirements.However, you may wish to contact yourinsurance carrier or one of the groupslisted in the final section of this booklet.In some states, the electric utility mayrequire additional insurance.

How does the PV system interfacewith my existing utility connection?What are my options?

There are basically three ways thatPV systems can be wired for residentialhomes: grid-connected, grid connectedwith battery storage, and off-grid.

Grid-connected implies that the PVsystem interfaces directly with yourcurrent utility connection. This set-upallows the consumer generator to putexcess generation (when PV generationexceeds current consumption) back onthe grid. In times when consumptionexceeds generation by the PV system,the consumer simply obtains the addi-tional power from the local utility asalways. Grid-connected systems aregaining in popularity because they donot require battery storage and are moreefficient in converting solar energy toelectricity. Provided the utility allows

Before connecting a PV system to the grid

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net metering, grid-connected systemsalso tend to be the most cost effective.Under net metering, customers receivefull credit for excess electricity fromtheir PV systems at the same rate theynormally pay from their utility. Inessence, your electric meter will runbackward when you are not using all the power that your PV system gener-ates. This topic will be addressed inmore detail below in the section on netmetering. Several Mid-Atlantic statesoffer net metering, although the termsand conditions vary in each case.

A second option is grid-connected withbattery storage. The included batterysystem provides back-up power in caseof a utility power outage. Batteries addvalue to your system, but at an increasedprice.

A third option is to operate the PVsystem independent of the utility grid,in cases where the home has no electricservice to begin with, or to providepower to outbuildings on a residentialproperty, for example. In cases where a house is off the grid and there are noutility lines available, PV oftenbecomes the most economical choicefor both the consumer and the utility.The cost of running a special line is usually more than the cost of installing a PV system.

What about net metering?Net metering has been generally

accepted as one of the best, unobtrusiveways for states to encourage consumersto purchase renewable energy systems.Basically, net metering allows cus-tomers to only pay for their “net” elec-tricity or the amount of power consumedfrom the utility minus the power gener-ated at the customer's home via the PV system. Excess generation (power not

consumed during the billing period)may be met with a reimbursement at the utility's avoided cost (usually a much lower rate) or not at all.

Once the utility has been contactedand has cleared your PV system for netmetering, you should check that you arereceiving credit. On a bright sunny day,when few or no lights or appliances inyour house are running, examine yourelectric meter. You should observe itspinning in reverse. You should note the meter reading, then check again in a few hours and see if the meter readingis lower. In most circumstances, the“old fashioned” meter with mechanicaldials works fine. However, some newerelectronic meters have trouble register-ing electricity flow in reverse. Your PVinstaller should be able to let you knowif you will have a problem.

What about utility and inspection sign-off?

After your new PV system is installed,it may need to be inspected and “signedoff” by the local permitting agency (usually a building or electrical inspec-tor) and perhaps by the electric utility.Inspectors may require your PV pro-vider to make corrections, but don't bealarmed, this is fairly common in theconstruction business.

What about warranties?Warranties are key to ensuring that yourPV system will be repaired if somethingshould malfunction during the warrantyperiod. PV systems should carry a full(not “limited”) two-year warranty, inaddition to any manufacturers' war-ranties on specific components. Thiswarranty should cover all parts andlabor, including the cost of removingany defective component, shipping it

13

to the manufacturer, and reinstalling thecomponent after it is repaired or replaced.

Be sure you know who is responsiblefor honoring the various warrantiesassociated with your system—theinstaller, the dealer, or the manufac-turer. The vendor should disclose thewarranty responsibility of each party.Know the financial arrangements, suchas contractor's bonds, that assure the

warranty will be honored. Remember,a warranty does not guarantee that thecompany will remain in business. Get a clear understanding of whom youshould contact if there is a problem. To avoid any later misunderstandings,be sure to read the warranty carefullyand review the terms and conditionswith your retailer.

A 1.8-kW GPU Solar system being installed inMarch 1998 on the home of Rick Brook,owner of Jersey Shore Solar in Lakewood, New Jersey. (Bob Gibson, UPVG/PIX08096)

14

AppendixNational, Regional, and State PV

Programs, Incentives, and Contacts

The PV roof shingles on the inner portion of this institute's lower roof were laid out andnailed down using the same methods used to lay conventional shingles. This rooftoparray of PV roof shingles was developed by United Solar Systems and EnergyConversion Devices under the DOE PV:BONUS program. (John Haigwood/PIX04577)

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The Utility Photovoltaic Group and theTEAM-UP InitiativeThe UPVG

The Utility Photovoltaic Group(UPVG) is a nonprofit association ofnearly 100 energy service providers(electric utilities and energy servicecompanies) dedicated to acceleratingthe use of photovoltaics for the benefitof electric utilities and their customersso that photovoltaics become a sustain-able energy option and a thriving domes-tic industry. The UPVG, with fundingsupport from DOE, is led and managedby the market itself—the potential utilitybuyers of solar photovoltaic systems.The UPVG programs are increasing theexperience of electric utilities and theircustomers with photovoltaics and arestimulating growth in the demand forsolar power. The UPVG maintains acomprehensive Web site at www.upvg.org

The UPVG program recognizes thatmany utilities lack knowledge or areskeptical about the potential of PV systems. For the market to proceed towidespread commercial applications,utilities need to gain greater confidencein the technology's role. Created inSeptember of 1992, the UPVG now isconcentrating on educating utility andother audiences and is helping to build afoundation for utility PV purchase com-mitments through its DOE-sponsoredTEAM-UP initiative.

The TEAM-UP Initiative

The TEAM-UP initiative (TechnologyExperience to Accelerate Markets forUtility Photovoltaics) is a utility-govern-ment partnership program to co-fundthe deployment of demonstration and

field validation photovoltaic (PV) sys-tems. TEAM-UP's goal is to develop amarket to help the PV industry movecloser to the point of domestic commer-cial sustainability. In all, six rounds ofTEAM-UP procurements have beenscheduled to complete implementationof the TEAM-UP initiative, where theindustry is investing nearly four dollarsfor every dollar invested by the U.S.taxpayer.

Since 1995, the UPVG, funded in partby DOE, has managed the TEAM-UPinitiative. TEAM-UP has funded 36business ventures through three roundsof competitively selected awards, repre-senting 130 partners in 30 states. Theseprojects are expected to significantlyincrease the experience of electric utili-ties and their customers with photo-voltaics and will stimulate growth in the demand for solar power across thenation. To date, TEAM-UP has awarded$15 million in DOE funds for programsto invest in PV business ventures in theUnited States. This will result in morethan 2,500 PV installations in as manyas 30 states with the involvement of 47energy service providers. This $15 mil-lion from DOE funding has leveragedover $57 million in investments fromprivate industry for a total of $72 mil-lion of new PV installations. These newPV system installations, totaling morethan 7.5 megawatts of power, will stim-ulate markets that will reduce the costand increase the deployment of PV systems, leading to more American jobs and a cleaner environment. Theseventures have the potential to create tensof millions of dollars of new investmentin thedomestic use of solar electric power.

National PV Programs, Incentives, and Contacts

16

The Future

The UPVG program has been verysuccessful and is continuing the veryimportant education and outreach activi-ties. The TEAM-UP program is just nowhitting stride, with almost 3.5 MW of PVsystems installed and another 4.0 MW inthe pipeline for deployment in the nexttwo years. These “mainstream” installa-tions will create a strong impetus forlong-term domestic investment in PVtechnology, and maintain the UnitedStates as the world leader in this energytechnology. This program needs to con-tinue and complete the six rounds tostimulate a self-sustaining and strongdomestic market for U.S. PV products.

Based on the first three rounds, theUPVG's TEAM-UP initiative is strongevidence of the electric industry's com-mitment to new and environmentallyclean technologies. The programdemonstrates how effective a partner-ship between the government and private industry can be where the gov-ernment supplies incentive, privateindustry shoulders most of the cost,and the nature of the investments isdetermined by the marketplace.

Much of this new investment will befor community-based solar installations.TEAM-UP is building on what UPVGmembers are already doing—responding

to customer demand for solar and otherrenewables and developing a commer-cial market for PV. Extensive marketresearch has indicated that customers are willing to pay a premium for “greenelectricity,” and many of the TEAM-UPventures have incorporated green-pricingprograms where customers are willingto pay more on their utility bill for cleanenergy. Aided by UPVG and TEAM-UP,electric utilities can greatly expand theopportunity for customers to choosesolar electricity in their homes and businesses.

TEAM-UP Funding

The funding by DOE for the TEAM-UP initiative is as follows:

For more information on TEAM-UP,please contact the UPVG at 202-857-0898 or via the Internet at www.ttcorp.com/upvg

TEAM-UP DOE FundingRound Share Private Cost

Round One $4,300,000 $17,500,000

Round Two $5,800,000 $ 17,800,000

Round Three $5,000,000 $ 22,500,000

Round Four ??? ???

Total $15,100,000 $ 57,800,000

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Virginia Alliance for Solar Electricity(VASE)

The Virginia Alliance for Solar Elec-tricity (VASE) is a partnership thatbegan with Solarex, Virginia Power,Virginia's Center for Innovative Tech-nology (CIT), the Virginia Departmentof Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME),and DOE to accelerate the commercial-ization of a new generation of photovol-taic (PV) modules manufactured inVirginia by Solarex. The VASE part-nership has expanded from its originalpartners and now includes other statesin the Mid-Atlantic region, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland,and North Carolina.

The VASE program was awarded cost-share funding from DOE under theCommercialization Ventures Programthrough a cooperative agreement madeto DMME. This cost-share funding isbeing used to “buy down” the cost ofSolarex's new tandem-junction amor-phous silicon thin-film photovoltaicmodules manufactured at their Virginiaplant. The VASE partners are identify-ing eligible building owners and devel-opers interested in installing this PVtechnology. For more information about the VASE partnership, VASE-funded projects, and technology appli-cations, please visit the VASE Web site(www.vase.org). The VASE contact person at Solarex is Chris Whiteley 301-698-4275.

For more information about Solarex,their products, and manufacturing facil-ities, please visit the Solarex Web site(www.solarex.com).

DOE's Million Solar Roofs' Solar EnergyLoan Program

DOE's Federal Credit Union is cur-rently working with Solarex and VASEto develop a “Million Solar Roofs’SolarEnergy Loan Program.” The programhas been awarded funding through theVASE program for 100 kW residentialsystems and it offers prospective con-sumers very attractive financing terms,including a 15-year, fixed-rate solarhome equity loan with a quarter point of interest reduced.

For more information, visit the fol-lowing Web sites:

DOE Energy Efficiency and Renew-able Energy Network—www.eren.doe.gov/millionroofs

Home Energy Saver Advisor—www.hes.lbl.gov

State Energy Alternatives MD—www.eren.doe.gov/state_energy/mystate.cfm?state=MD

State Energy Alternatives VA—www.eren.doe.gov/state_energy/mystate.cfm?state=VA

U.S. Department of Energy—www.doe.gov

The Energy Federal Credit Union(EFCU) suggests that customers inter-ested in the Solar Mortgage LoanProgram visit the nearest EFCU branch

Annual PercentageTerm Rate (Fixed) Loan-to-Value

5 years 6.50% 80%

10 years 7.00% 80%

15 years 7.50% 80%

Mid-Atlantic Regional PV Programs, Incentives, andContacts

18

location or call the Member ServiceCall Center at 301-670-1300 or 800-223-2177 and press 4. The EFCUWeb site at www.energyfcu.org alsocontains information on the program.

These townhouses in Bowie, Maryland have standing-seam roofs. The one on the right hasan integrated PV standing-seam roof that looks and performs like the standard metalroofing on the other units, but it produces electricity. The PV modules closely match thelook of the standard metal roofing modules, preserving a consistent, attractiveappearance. ( Tim Ellison, ECD/PIX04473)

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DelawareState ContactSuzanne SebastianEnergy Program ManagerDivision of Facilities Management410 Federal Street, Suite 2Dover, DE 19901302-739-5644302-739-6148ssebastian@state.de.us (e-mail)

District of ColumbiaState Contacts and Other ResourcesD.C. Department of Energy2000 14th Street, NWSuite 300Washington, DC 20009202-673-6738

Maryland, DC, Virginia SolarEnergy Industries AssociationSteve Kalland, Acting Directorc/o Capital Sun Group6503 81st StreetCabin John, MD 20818301-229-0671301-229-0289 (fax)

This organization represents the Mid-Atlantic region in the Solar EnergyIndustries Association, the nationaltrade association of the solar industry.Contact them for information aboutsolar energy and various PV applications.

MarylandMaryland was the first state in the

country to have a functioning solar program in place. The Maryland SolarRoofs Program is comprised of theResidential Rooftop Program, the SolarSchools Program, the Solar for FarmsProgram, and municipal solar projects.Maryland passed a PV net metering

law in 1997, and recently extended netmetering to include schools and churches.

Incentives and ProgramsNet Metering

In the 1997 session of the MarylandGeneral Assembly, the legislature passednet metering legislation for the use ofphotovoltaic systems on residencesthroughout the State. The legislationrequired all utilities to allow the use of a single meter to register forward andreverse flows of power. To qualify fornet metering in Maryland, PV systemsmust not have a peak generating capac-ity of more than 80 kW (80,000 watts).Compliant systems must also be ULlisted and comply with Article 690 ofthe National Electric Code and IEEEstandards. Systems installed by a con-tractor under the Residential RooftopsProgram assures that the contractor wasinformed of and met these requirements.

Maryland utilities are required toconnect customers who comply withthese requirements to the grid and provide net metering service. (Note:the Maryland law limits the totalamount of PV that can be "net metered"to 0.2% of the utility peak load or about34 megawatts statewide.) To learn theexact terms, contact the Maryland PublicService Commission and request a copyof the net metering tariff for your elec-tric utility. Some utilities may requirean interconnection agreement andinspection; others may just requirenotice.

In most circumstances, the "old fash-ioned" utility meter with mechanicaldials works fine under net metering.However, some newer electronic metershave trouble registering electricity flow

State PV Programs, Incentives, and Contacts in the Mid-Atlantic Region

20

in reverse. Your PV installer should beable to let you know if you will have aproblem. If you are unsure, contact theengineering division of the MarylandPublic Service Commission and ask fora test of the meter in both directions(forward and reverse).

Maryland Residential RooftopsProgramOverview

The Maryland Residential RooftopsProgram, currently in its second year, isa statewide initiative to stimulate theincreased use of photovoltaic energy by residential consumers. Sponsored by the Maryland Energy Administration(MEA), the program provides grants to help Maryland electricity consumerspurchase solar PV systems. The MEAalso simplifies the process required forcustomers to purchase their systems byselecting a contractor/installer througha competitive procurement process. Inso doing, the State can be certain that itsgrant funds and customers are going toan experienced and qualified contractor.This method also assures that the cus-tomers receive the most competitiveprice and a positive first experience inpurchasing a PV system.

The program will continue to increasethe number of PV installations eachyear to reach Maryland's goal of 1/50 of installed systems by 2010 under theFederal Million Solar Roofs Initiative.The Million Roofs Initiative seeks toinstall one million PV systems nation-wide by 2010. Under the first year ofthe program, 10 systems were success-fully installed. During 1999, the MEAwill oversee the installation of 20 sys-tems, and this figure will double each of the next 5 years. The program'sbroader, long-term purpose is to developa self-sustaining regional market for

solar energy. This includes an infra-structure of manufacturers, distributorsand installers, and a trained cadre ofelectricians and builders familiar withthe technology.

The grant monies offered by the pro-gram will decline each year in responseto expected declines in the cost of solarPV systems. During 1998, the grantamount was $4,000 per system, but thiswill decline to approximately $3,600per system during 1999, and will befurther reduced in subsequent years.The grant monies are incorporated intothe system price offered to the con-sumer by the MEA-selected installer.

Requirements

There are several aspects of the Resi-dential Rooftops that prospective cus-tomers must consider:

• Customers who wish to participate in the Residential Rooftops Program and receive the excellent system prices offered through State grants must work with the installer selected by the MEA. Customers that install systems on their own, independent ofthe program, can not then apply for grant assistance.

• The minimum system size for PV sys-tems installed under the program is 1.2kW. Customers may increase the size of their systems at their discre-tion, but the State grant amount incor-porated into their system price remains constant.

• The customer's home must be located in Maryland.

• The customer must contact the MEA to verify that grant funds are still available.

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State Contacts and Other ResourcesJonathan CrossMaryland Energy Administration45 Calvert StreetAnnapolis, MD 21401410-260-7184410-974-2250 (fax)jcross@energy.state. md.us (e-mail)

Maryland, DC, Virginia SolarEnergy Industries AssociationSteve Kalland, Acting Directorc/o Capital Sun Group6503 81st StreetCabin John, Maryland 20818301-229-0671301-229-0289 (fax)

This organization represents the Mid-Atlantic region in the Solar EnergyIndustries Association, the nationaltrade association of the solar industry.Contact them for information aboutsolar energy and various PV applications.

The Maryland Public ServiceCommissionWilliam Donald Schaefer Tower6 St. Paul StreetBaltimore, MD 21202410 767-8112410-333-6844 (fax)

The Maryland Public Service Commis-sion regulates the State's utilities. Utilitycustomers have the right to file an infor-mal or formal complaint with theCommission. Individuals, groups, ororganizations can also intervene or participate in formal cases before theCommission, and can testify at publichearings that the Commission holdsacross the state.

New JerseyIncentives and Programs

New Jersey offers several programsand incentives for solar energy and

in-state entities have been very active in installing PV systems on residentialand commercial facilities.

Net MeteringNew Jersey's legislation, which dereg-

ulated electricity supply, requires netmetering for both PV and wind energy.The law applies to both residential andsmall commercial customers for netmetered PV systems. Net excess gener-ation is credited the following monthand is purchased by the utility atavoided wholesale cost.

Sales Tax Incentive

The technologies that are eligible forthis incentive include: passive-solarspace heat, active-solar water heat,active-solar space heat, solar-thermalelectricity, photovoltaics, wind, bio-mass, hydro, alternative fuels, andwater pumping. It addresses all sectors:industrial, commercial, residential, andall utilities. Basically, New Jersey offersa full exemption from the state 6% salestax for all solar and wind equipment.This exemption, which was created in1980 and is scheduled to expire in 2000,is available to all taxpayers. (Courtesyof the North Carolina Solar Center(NCSC), http://www.ncsc.ncsu.edu/)

The point of contact for the incentiveis Cameron Johnson at the New JerseyBoard of Public Utilities, at: 44 SouthClinton Avenue Box 350, Trenton, NJ08625-0350. Her telephone is 609-777-3316 and fax is 609- 777-3336.

Technical Sufficiency Standards forSolar Energy Devices

This is an equipment certificationstandard for solar generation equipment.Eligible technologies include: passivesolar space heat, active solar water heat,active solar space heat, solar industrialprocess heat and solar thermal activity,

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in addition to photovoltaics. The pro-gram addresses commercial, industrialand residential sectors.

New Jersey's technical sufficiencystandards for solar equipment wereestablished to certify eligible solar-energy equipment for the State's salesand use tax exemptions. The statutedefines all relevant solar-energy equip-ment, including equipment for passive-solar design. Acceptable certificationstandards/organizations include SolarRating and Certification Corporation(SRCC), Air-Conditioning and Refrig-eration Institute (ARI), or AmericanSociety of Heating, Refrigeration, andAir-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).The point of contact for more informa-tion is also Cameron Johnson.(Courtesy of NCSC)

Sustainable Development Loan Fund

The New Jersey Commerce and Eco-nomic Growth Commission, Office ofSustainable Business, offers low-interest loans to New Jersey businessesthat wish to install renewable energysystems. The Office of SustainableBusiness also provides full fundingpackages for companies that producerenewable energy technologies withinthe state of New Jersey.

For more information, call CassandraKling at 609-633-3655.

State ContactsCameron JohnsonNew Jersey Division of EnergyP.O. Box 350Trenton, NJ 08625-0350609-777-3316609-777-3330 (fax)johnsonc@bpu.state.nj.us (e-mail)

Mid-Atlantic Solar EnergyIndustries AssociationLyle Rawlings, President66 Snydertown Rd.Hopewell, NJ609-466-4495;609-466-8681

NJ Commerce and Economic GrowthCommission Office of Sustainable BusinessCassandra Kling28 West State StreetP.O. Box 819Trenton, NJ 08625-0820

PennsylvaniaPennsylvania recently began compet-

itive retail electricity service, allowingtwo-thirds of all customer classes (resi-dential, commercial, and industrial) tohave freedom of choice for selecting an electricity generation supplier. Theyalso passed net metering legislationduring 1998.

Incentives and ProgramsNet Metering

As a result of the restructuring of theelectricity industry in the state, someutilities are offering net metering forsystems up to 10kW. A utility may ormay not pay for any electricity gener-ated in excess of the system owner'sown usage. Contact the utility in yourarea.

State Contacts and Other ResourcesJames M. McTish, Jr.Pennsylvania Department ofEnvironmental ProtectionLee Park, Suite 6010555 North LaneConshohocken, PA 19428610-832-6098610-832-6133 (fax)mctish.james@dep.state.pa.us (e-mail)

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Pennsylvania Solar EnergyIndustries Association (Merging with the new Mid-AtlanticSEIA this year)Bob Nape, Presidentc/o Solar Techniques5919 Pulaski AvenuePhiladelphia, PA 19144215-844-4196215-844-4196 (fax)Bobnape@aol.com (e-mail)

Philadelphia Million Solar RoofsCommunity PartnershipEnergy Coordinating Agency ofPhiladelphia, Inc.Scott Hunter1924 Arch StreetPhiladelphia, PA 19103(215) 988-0929(215) 988-0919 (fax)scott@ecasavesenergy.org (email)

VirginiaVirginia offers an energy efficiency

and renewable energy loan program,tax exemptions, and recently passed net metering legislation. It is also home to the Virginia Alliance for SolarElectricity program, which was recentlyexpanded across the Mid-Atlantic region.

Incentives and ProgramsRenewable Energy and EnergyEfficiency Loan Program

This residential loan program, whichwas created under HUD Title 1 in 1978,is administered by the Virginia HousingDevelopment Authority. The programmakes low-interest loans available forlow and moderate income homeownersfor repairs that reduce energy consump-tion or reduce dependence on conven-tional energy sources. All renewableenergy technologies are eligible, includ-ing passive-solar space heat, active-solarwater heat, active-solar space heat, solar-

thermal electricity, photovoltaics, wind,biomass, hydro, geothermal, and waste.The interest rate is 6.75%. Additionally,there is an annual Federal HousingAssociation insurance charge of one-half of one percent (0.5%) of the loanamount. Loan amounts range from$1,000 to $25,000 for terms from 6 months up to 20 years. (A lien on the property is required for all loanamounts.) Borrowers can borrow up to100% of the equity in their home. About100 loans are made per year. The incen-tive provides 100% of equity and termsof up to 20 years. The point of contactfor the program is Julia Perkinson, Vir-ginia Housing Development Authority,601 S. Belvidere Street, Richmond, VA23220-6500. Her phone is 804-782-1986and fax is (804) 783-6737.

Local Option Property TaxExemption

This statute allows any county, city or town to exempt, or partially exempt,solar-energy equipment or recyclingequipment from local property taxes.Residential, commercial, or industrialproperty is eligible. The statute broadlydefines solar-energy equipment as any“application that would otherwiserequire a conventional source ofenergy.” Recycling equipment is definedas equipment that is “integral to therecycling process and for use primarilyfor the purpose of abating or preventingpollution of the atmosphere or waters.”It addresses the following technologies:passive-solar space heat, active-solarwater heat, active-solar space heat,solar-thermal electricity, and photo-voltaics. To determine if the localitythat you are in offers this property-taxexemption, contact your local commis-sioner of revenue and cite the followingSection from the Code of Virginia,§58.1-3661.

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Net MeteringIn March, 1999, the Virginia state

legislature enacted legislation (VirginiaAssembly bill S1269) requiring netmetering for small solar, wind, and hydro-electric systems. The law requires all ofthe state's utilities to offer net meteringto residential systems of 10 kW or lessand nonresidential systems of 25 kW or less. The law limits the amount of net metered generation to 0.1% of theprevious year's peak electricity demand.Customers can apply the credit for elec-tricity generated from their system tothe following month; however, at theend of the year, any excess generation isgranted to the utility. The law requiredthe Virginia State Corporation Commis-sion to establish by regulation the netmetering program to begin no later thanJuly 1, 2000. For more information onnet metering, contact your local utilityprovider or Mr. Ken Jurman, VirginiaDepartment of Mines, Minerals andEnergy, 202 North 9th Street, 8th Floor,Richmond, Virginia 23219,804-692-3222.

Virginia Solar PV ManufacturingIncentive Grant Program

Virginia offers photovoltaic manufac-turing companies who locate their oper-ations in Virginia one of the most far-reaching incentive grants available. The program was designed to createjobs and economic development inVirginia by encouraging the manufac-ture of a high-tech renewable energyproject in Virginia. It provides performance-based incentive grants (up to$0.75/watt) directly to the companieswho sell PV modules that they manu-facture in Virginia. Since the programwas created, Virginia has attracted twoPV manufacturing companies, includ-ing BP Solarex and Solar BuildingSystems. For more information on this

program, contact: Mr. Ken Jurman,Virginia Department of Mines,Minerals and Energy, 202 North 9thStreet, 8th Floor, Richmond, Virginia23219, 804-692-3222.

State Contacts and Other ResourcesKen JurmanDivision of EnergyThe Department of Mines, Mineralsand Energy9th Street Office Building, 8th Floor202 North 9th StreetRichmond, VA 23219804-692-3226

Maryland, DC, Virginia SolarEnergy Industries AssociationSteve Kalland, Acting Directorc/o Capital Sun Group6503 81st StreetCabin John, MD 20818301-229-0671301-229-0289 (fax)

This organization represents the Mid-Atlantic region in the Solar EnergyIndustries Association, the nationaltrade association of the solar industry.Contact them for information aboutsolar energy and various PV applications.

West VirginiaState ContactBill WillisWest Virginia Development Office1900 Kanawha Boulevard EastCharleston, WV 25305-0311

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Printed with a renewable-source ink on paper containing at least 50% wastepaper, including20% postconsumer waste.

Cover photo: This house generates its own electricity from a 4.25-kW PV systembeautifully integrated into the rooftop. A net-metering relationship with theirlocal utility makes on-site electrical storage unnecessary for these homeowners. (Solar Design Associates, Inc./PIX 04470)

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy Philadelphia Regional Office

Prepared by the Maryland Energy Administration

September 1999

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